The internet is packed with thousands and thousands of sewing and crafting blogs. With so many out there, it's difficult to know where to start. As a blogger, I visit TONS of blogs and I am constantly amazed. Just when I think I've seen it all, up pops a new blog I just can't stop reading. We don't want you to miss out on all the fun, so we've put together a list of Must Follow blogs for 2013.
Disclaimer: Chances are - we missed a bunch of equally awesome blogs - PLEASE leave a comment with a blog you think deserves some lovin' and why so we can get in on the creativity!
Each blog had to meet each of the following criteria:
1. Post Frequently
2. Information to Advertisement Ratio - More sewing/crafting posts than sponsor/advertisements
3. Creativity - Original and interesting content
4. Versatility - wide range of projects/tutorials/techniques
5. User Friendly - easy to navigate and interact
Fashion Sewing Blog
Ever wanted to get a degree is garment sewing, but for free? Well, here you go! Colleen Lea offers free video sewing tutorials on pretty much everything fashion related. As a former fashion teacher and designer, she knows all the tips and tricks to perfect your sewing skills. Did I mention these lessons easy-to-follow videos? So great!
Tasia does a fantastic job exploring the construction end of sewing. In many posts, she dives into the anatomy of vintage clothing and explains the way items were sewn and why. She also has a line of sewing patterns specifically for pear shaped women - yes! She is so talented and her style is absolutely classic and inspiring. The sewing community is raving about her patterns, as they are explained to a 'Tee' (pun intended). Don't miss out!
This one is an exception to the "Post Frequently" requirement. The information here is priceless, especially for a self taught seamstress. Alternations and formal wear sewing is a skill fewer and fewer people are taught. The proper techniques are hard to come by, but Linda KNOWS her stuff. She owns her own bridal shop and often posts tutorials based on what she is actually altering for work.
Gertie's Blog for Better Sewing
If you love bombshell dresses and serious dressmaking, you'll love this blog. This blog is dedicated to fabulous women's clothing. A lot of her tutorials are about exploring vintage patterns and how to actually get through sewing one. She does a great job of explaining a proper fit and how to make adjustments. She also has a book you can check out and does sewing classes online.
A little mix of everything, but boy is she creative! The first time I visited Grosgrain Fabulous, she was featuring Disney Princess Headbands - it was like a match made in internet heaven. Her tutorials are always unique and stylish. Everything from her children's projects to Mommy fashion is rather impressive. This blog isn't just sewing, it's a combination of crafts, decorating, sewing, and fashion. Definitely worth the follow!
Here's sewing in a language most of us can understand! This site is themed as a 'bake shop' with recipes (tutorials), ingredients (supplies), and chefs (bloggers). All the projects involve using pre-cut Moda fabric - and speaking of projects - there are TONS! If you are a quilter, you have to check out this site.
I can't talk sewing blogs without recommending Threads! Most of us know about Threads Magazine, but some may not know just how extensive their website is. There's a free version and a yearly subscription version - each has fantastic information. The subscription version has a bit more and is iPad friendly (yesssss!). I love Threads because of their fantastic tutorials, many of which are detailed video tutorials. Did I mention there are tons of free patterns? They post something new nearly every day - I don't think you could ever get bored at Threads!
Aunt Peaches "Sparkly, Messy, More Fun Than a Bag of Possums"
My absolute favorite blog. Where do I begin? To put it frankly, I love this lady. She's exactly my cup of tea and in the most fascinatingly unapologetic manner. Aunt Peaches isn't just a craft blog - it's a documentation of her life with each project. Her experiences, struggles, and self reflection shine through in her posts. Her style isn't for everyone. How many people have glitter giraffes on their wall? But I find her writing style and perspective to be entertaining and humbling at the same time. She knows how to get in your head.
Most of us can relate to her honesty and free spirit - a breath of fresh air...mixed a hint of bleach. If you're looking to be inspired and captivated all while getting your craft mojo on, bookmark the one and only Aunt Peaches.
When you need to redecorate and upgrade on a shoe string budget, visit Crafty Nest! This blog is packed with designer inspired projects all made to be cost efficient. The projects are super easy to navigate and the instructions are well written. This site is a combination of sewing, crafting, and home improvement. Warning: You may feel the need to compulsively redecorate your home after visiting Crafty Nest. Ye Been Warned.
Whimsical and feminine, Tea Rose Home is a great source for earthy inspirations. Her projects are positively lovely. Her posts explore both her creativity and life. You'll notice a great mix of projects, from sewing to quilting to jewelry making. What keeps me coming back is her sense of style and attention to detail. You can't go wrong with her because her creations are essentially timeless.